STILL Game star Gavin Mitchell has been forced to pull out of the King's Theatre panto for medical reasons.

The pantomine favourite, who plays Boaby the barman, dramatically quit with just a week to go before the start of Peter Pan's run.

He will be replaced by actor Warren Brown, best known as Luther's sidekick DS Ripley in the BBC crime drama.

Gavin, 49, was due to play Captain Hook but theatre bosses today confirmed he had to "withdraw from the show for medical reasons".

James Haworth, General Manager of the King's Theatre said: "We would like to extend a warm King's welcome to the newest addition of our panto family, Warren Brown.

"The much-loved member of our panto team, Gavin Mitchell, will be sadly missed.

"On behalf of all the King's staff, Peter Pan cast and crew, I would like to wish Gavin a full and speedy recovery, but I know Warren will do a brilliant job as the dastardly Captain Hook.

"Warren is an excellent addition to our talented Peter Pan cast which includes Greg McHugh, Des Clarke, Scott Fletcher and Joanne McGuinness."

In October, Gavin missed rehearsals for the Still Game Hydro stage show after cracking ribs in a bike accident.

He recovered in time for the opening night at the SSE Hydro on September 19.

Warren, 36, said: "Well I didn't expect to be donning a Hook this Christmas, but I am so glad this opportunity has come along and I can't wait to get started.

"I have heard such fabulous things about the King's panto that I am honoured to be joining such a wonderful tradition."

rebecca.gray@eveningtimes.co.uk